The future of Smart TVs with built-in satellite tuners?

Indian Government announced that built-in satellite TV tuner will be mandatory in new latest TV. So will the manufacturing of set-top boxes stop in India? So let’s know about it – No, only free-to-air set-top boxes may impact slow down in manufacturing. But this market will be still alive due to the latest STB functions and features. As you know, the Indian Government has announced that all new TVs sold in India, onwards must have a built-in satellite TV tuner to receive satellite TV signals. This move is part of the government’s efforts to reduce e-waste and simplify the TV viewing experience for consumers by eliminating the need for a separate set-top box. While the mandatory inclusion of a built-in satellite TV tuner in new TVs is a positive development in terms of reducing e-waste and simplifying the TV viewing experience, it does not necessarily mean that set-top boxes will be closed completely. In India, there are many cable TV and DTH (direct-to-home) operators who provide TV services through their own set-top boxes. These operators may continue to offer set-top boxes to consumers who do want to avail of their services or who prefer to use a separate set-top box for various reasons such as additional features, recording options, HEVC, DVB-S2X, 4K supported, DLNA or casting features, etc. Furthermore, it is worth noting that the mandatory inclusion of a built-in satellite TV tuner in new TVs may increase the cost of TVs, as the manufacturers will have to bear the cost of integrating the satellite tuner into the TV’s hardware. However, this may also lead to increased competition among TV manufacturers and result in more affordable TVs with built-in satellite tuners being available in the market. Overall, the mandatory inclusion of a built-in satellite TV tuner in new TVs is a step towards simplifying the TV viewing experience and reducing e-waste. However, it is not expected to completely end the use of set-top boxes, as they may continue to be used by some consumers and TV service providers.

Disadvantages of Smart TVs with built-in satellite tuners –

Smart TVs with built-in satellite tuners are often more expensive than TVs without, which may not be advisable if you are not planning to use the satellite tuner frequently. Smart TVs may not be as durable as CRT TVs, if you bought a CRT TV in 1998, you can still enjoy it. But smart TVs stop working due to the latest OS updates and application sizes. Also, Read – Which in-built satellite TV tuner should be in the latest TVs? Is it mandatory to have a built-in Satellite S2 Tuner in new TVs?

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  FAQs –

Do people still use set-top boxes?

Yes, many people still use set-top boxes, especially for traditional cable or satellite TV services.

Are set-top boxes obsolete?

While technology evolves, set-top boxes are not entirely obsolete. However, with the rise of smart TVs and streaming services, some may find alternative methods more convenient.

What is the alternative to a set-top box?

Smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku or Amazon Fire TV are popular alternatives. They offer diverse content through apps and may appeal to those seeking more flexibility.

Is it time to say goodbye to the set-top box?

The decision to say goodbye to the set-top box depends on personal preferences. Some may choose alternatives for convenience, while others might stick with set-top boxes for familiarity.

Will set-top boxes be eliminated in the coming years?

The future of set-top boxes is uncertain. As technology advances, there may be a gradual shift away from traditional boxes, but their complete elimination depends on industry developments and consumer choices.